The splendid alleyways of the small medieval village of Casertavecchia exude a sense of their timeless past. Set against a stunning backdrop, the village stretches across Monte Virgo, overlooking the verdant plains of Capua and bestowing a sense of peace and wondrous silence upon the visitor. This medieval setting is home to the church of St. Michele Arcangelo.

Narrow winding roads lead visitors to the town; the stone and tuff houses along the route have retained their original form, suspended in time among the echoes of the past. The reds, whites and browns are evocative of days gone by, subtly transformed by the passage of time and brought to life by the flowers that adorn the walls of the houses. Their roofs reach skywards, punctuated by towers and belfries. The underpasses and narrow passageways create an interplay of light and shade, making the sky seem impossibly far away.

The belfry of the church of St. Michele Arcangelo reaches longingly towards infinity, proudly dominating its surroundings. It competes for pride of place with the church lantern, “a masterpiece of refined colour” featuring polychrome embellishment, marble inlays and floral motifs.

The belfry overlooks the little street that opens out onto the town square. An opportunity to compose oneself before entering the church.  The building is essential in its forms, devoid of superfluity, pomp and decoration.

The marble of the imposing columns that flank the central nave capture the light that shines through the windows from above. The sobriety of the church allows the devotion of its ancient and current worshippers to shine through, while the sparse symbols carved into the stone evoke sentiments that bring man closer to God.